When selecting your divorce lawyer, there are certain considerations you should make to help ensure you have the best representation for your situation. These include:
Choose an Attorney
Referrals. Word of mouth is a great way to start your search for a divorce lawyer. Get recommendations from friends you trust (and who are in a similar financial position) who have gone through a divorce. That said, remember that each situation is different, as is your desired approach. Don’t hire a lawyer just because a friend raves about their experience with them. Instead, add them to your list of prospects and then determine whether they are a good fit for you specifically.
An Interview. The next step is to sit down with prospective divorce attorneys.
Learn about their background, experience in the high net worth divorce segment and personal philosophy. Also, if you are interested in exploring alternatives to traditional divorce (such as mediation, collaborative divorce, etc.); be sure to ask about their views on these options as well as their expertise in the various areas.
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Expertise. Has the attorney been certified as an expert in Family Law? For instance, the Florida Bar considers attorneys as specialists in Marital Family Law (including divorce). There are over 120,000 attorneys in Florida. Less than 300 are Board Certified as Marital and Family Law Specialists. See my prior blog on the importance of Board Certification in selecting a lawyer.
In addition to qualifications, you should be assessing your rapport with the attorney. If you don’t feel comfortable with a lawyer, it doesn’t matter how impressive their credentials may be. Select a lawyer with whom you have a personal connection – whether they have a similar personality to you, have personality traits in keeping with your desired approach to divorce or just someone you trust.
In addition, you should inquire about their communication style with clients. How accessible are they and how long will it take them to get back to you if you have questions or issues? It is important to manage expectations up front so you are both on the same page.
The choice of an attorney for your high net worth divorce case is an extremely important decision. Be sure you approach the selection process with a focus on finding the professional who will best protect both your financial and emotional goals.
Board Certified Marital and Family Law Attorney Charles D. Jamieson understands that divorce is an extremely sensitive and important issue. Thanks to extensive experience and a focus on open communication, Attorney Jamieson adeptly addresses the complex issues surrounding divorce while delivering excellent personal service. If you are contemplating a divorce, or involved in a divorce, please contact The Law Firm of Charles D. Jamieson, P.A. or call 561-478-0312 to schedule a consultation.
Source: Nolo
